Basingstoke is a major step closer to delivering the biggest investment in leisure and wellbeing the borough has seen for decades, after contracts were signed to build and operate a flagship new water and leisure destination.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Places Leisure have now exchanged contracts, unlocking the next phase in delivering a landmark facility that will not only replace the Aquadrome but help transform the leisure park into an even stronger destination for residents and visitors.

The agreement also sees Places Leisure become the new operator of Basingstoke Aquadrome, Basingstoke Golf Centre and Tadley Health and Fitness Centre from Friday 1 January 2027.

The council will continue working closely with Serco and Basingstoke and Deane Community Leisure Trust to ensure a smooth transition, with services uninterrupted and staff, members and customers kept fully updated throughout.

Meanwhile, Places Leisure will begin finalising the detailed design of the new energy-efficient complex, shaped by extensive public feedback, ahead of submitting a planning application this autumn. Subject to planning permission, the new complex will be built in a new location on the leisure park, enabling the existing Aquadrome to remain open until the new facility is complete.

Plans include a 25-metre eight-lane competition pool, teaching pool, exciting leisure waters with flumes, a modern gym and fitness studios, indoor play including Clip and Climb, party rooms, and a café.

Additional facilities, including a health suite, Reformer Pilates and padel courts, are also being explored to ensure the destination remains at the forefront of modern leisure experiences.

Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Business Engagement Cllr Onnalee Cubitt said: “This is one of the most exciting milestones our borough has reached in many years. Today isn’t simply about signing a contract. It marks the beginning of a new era for leisure, health and wellbeing in Basingstoke and it will redefine leisure in North Hampshire.

“We’re creating far more than a replacement swimming pool. We’re investing in a vibrant destination that will inspire people of all ages to be more active, healthier and happier. Whether it is children learning to swim, a family enjoying a day out, a club training future champions or someone simply wanting to improve their wellbeing, this destination is being designed with our residents in mind.

“The new complex will also play an important role in the wider transformation of our leisure park. Alongside our ambitions for new attractions and experiences, it will strengthen the park as a place where people choose to spend more time, delivering lasting benefits for local businesses, economy and our community.

“From the outset, our ambition has been to deliver something exceptional, not simply replacing what we have today but creating a destination that people across Hampshire will want to visit. Places Leisure shares that ambition and together we are creating a facility that will serve our communities for generations.

“I would also like to sincerely thank Serco and Basingstoke and Deane Community Leisure Trust. Their professionalism and commitment throughout this transition will ensure residents continue receiving excellent leisure services while we build an exciting future together.”

Dan Walker, Business Development Director at Places Leisure said: “We are thrilled to be moving forward with the next steps for this exciting development. Working in partnership with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the new landmark destination will bring significant opportunities to improve the health and wellbeing of the entire community.

“Places Leisure will be bringing our expertise and experience to this project to deliver a high-quality and community-focused facility. We look forward to working closely with local partners, colleagues, residents and community groups as we progress to the next phase to create a facility that reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.

“Alongside delivering the brand-new facility, we will be eager and ready to welcome members of the local community when we begin our operation and management of the golf facility in the town, the current Aquadrome and Tadley Health and Fitness Centre in January.”

Luke Charlton, Contract Manager for Basingstoke on behalf of Serco and Basingstoke and Deane Community Leisure Trust, added: “For the remaining months of the contract, it will be business as usual for the trust and our operating partners, Serco Leisure. Our employees will continue providing inclusive, high-quality leisure and wellbeing services that make a real difference to the people of this community.

“We’re very proud of our record in Basingstoke over the past 24 years. We’d like to thank Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for its ongoing support and will work closely with them over the next six months to ensure the transition period is a smooth one for both customers and employees.”

More information about the project is available at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisureparkproposal